Overview
An experimental aircraft conducting an initial climb from Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM), Alabama, experienced engine difficulties that led to a gear-up forced landing on a four-lane highway. The pilot reported the left engine failed and attempted to feather the propeller. The pilot then radioed Dannelly Tower that the aircraft was returning to the airport.
Sequence of Events
Shortly after reporting the left engine failure, the pilot reported that the right engine lost thrust. However, the right propeller was not feathered because the pilot was uncertain whether the engine was producing power. The aircraft subsequently executed a forced landing with the landing gear retracted on a four-lane highway.
Fuel and Previous Issues
The aircraft's engines were fueled with alcohol, which had been approved by the Federal Aviation Administration for research and development purposes. Three days prior to the accident, the aircraft had experienced power surges during flight and made a precautionary landing. No problems were found during inspection at that time, and the flight was continued.
Inspection Findings
Post-accident inspection revealed that the right propeller was feathered and the left propeller was in low pitch. The aircraft's weight and balance calculation indicated it was approximately 400 pounds over its gross weight. The engines were successfully test-run after the accident. As of the report, there has been no determination as to the cause of the reported engine failures.